McDonald's partnering with Fazoli's to open 20-plus new units of the Italian fast-causal chain.

Dow Jones Newswires reported today on McDonald's Corp. and Fazoli's plan to jointly develop 20 to 30 Fazoli's in three U.S. markets. Although the deal's terms have not been publicly disclosed at this time, McDonald's has revealed that it may, down the road, purchase the entire Fazoli's operation, as it did with Boston Market and Donatos Pizza. McDonald's Corp. spokesmen say the move fits right into the company's strategy to "capture more meal occasions under both the Golden Arches and the company's partner brands."
McDonald's also holds interest in Denver-based Chipolte Mexican Grill and England's Pret A Manger eateries.